What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
deficiency
Example
The deficiency of vitamins in his diet caused him to feel weak and tired. [deficiency: noun]
Example
The report highlighted the deficiency in the company's safety protocols. [deficiency: noun]
insufficiency
Example
The insufficiency of funds prevented the project from being completed on time. [insufficiency: noun]
Example
The company's insufficiency in meeting customer demands led to a decline in sales. [insufficiency: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Insufficiency is more commonly used than deficiency in everyday language. Insufficiency is a more general term that can be used in various contexts, while deficiency is more specific and often used in scientific or medical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between deficiency and insufficiency?
Both deficiency and insufficiency can be used in formal or informal contexts. However, deficiency may be perceived as more technical or specialized due to its association with scientific or medical terminology.
